Packers (12-3) at Bears (8-7)
Sunday, 4:25 ET, Soldier Field, Chicago
TV: Fox
Danny Sheridan’s line: Packers by 51⁄
2
Packers’ keys to victory: They have a chance to replicate their earlier 41-point outing against Chicago by putting up a lot of points early to put the pressure on the Bears. On defense, Green Bay will look to slow down a Chicago offense that has found success with David Montgomery, one of the best running backs over the last month. Green Bay will look to slow down Montgomery and force QB Mitchell Trubisky to win through the air.
Bears’ keys to victory: Running the ball with Montgomery and using Trubisky’s strengths to keep him comfortable. On defense, it’s simple: The Bears need to get off the field on third down, something they’ve struggled with over the last month. In the first meeting, they allowed QB Aaron Rodgers to move up and down the field with ease. Defensive coordinator Chuck Pagano needs his defense to bring the pressure on Rodgers, which starts with DT Akiem Hicks, OLB Khalil Mack and OLB Robert Quinn getting after the quarterback.
Matchup to watch: Packers WR Davante Adams vs. Bears CB Kyle Fuller. Adams has the ability to take over games, which is what Chicago can’t afford to let happen. In the first meeting, he was held to 61 yards and a score, which is decent considering what he’s done to other teams. There’s no stopping Adams, but it’ll be Fuller who will be tasked with trying to limit Green Bay’s biggest playmaker.
Who wins? With a playoff spot on the line, the Bears need a win. Chicago’s offense has been impressive, but it’s the struggling defense that will likely spell trouble. Packers 31-27